The hype was on given that Canada was eliminated from any chance of a Gold Medal match-up between Canada and one of the other power house teams, but regardless the hockey is exciting.
Given that many so called fans were selling the tickets for the final one has to ask if you are a real fan or just looking to make a “fast buck” on your return.
Given the fact Russia was playing speculation in the press box was that quite possibly Tretiak might be hanging around, but so far no sightings.
While waiting for the game to start the discussion in the press box was not only ticket sales and and ticket giveaways, but also how well the US would do against the powerhouse Russian team.
Both teams were in need of the win to advance for the final, but unaware of whom they will face, but no doubt each had their picks of who to play.
Shashkov gave the Russians managed the first marker of the game in front of 14,355 excited fans but after a lengthy video review the goal was overturned due to a distinct kicking motion with his right skate.
While waiting for the review the jumbo screen showed several individuals dressed like Donald Trump and Vladimir Putin making gestures, each using their own unique style.
Game hostess Margaret Kan
Russian Fans 
Special Guests In Building
The remainder of the period was fast and it wasn’t until the 14:29 mark that saw the US notch the first goal of the game with Wahlstrom, who is still a World Junior “rookie” player gave the US a 1-0 lead and his second of the tournament.
The teams heading to the dressing room following a minor altercation at the end of the first that saw the on-ice officials sort out the altercation and assessed a minor penalty to each team.
Primeau Save 
Crease Action 
Rough Play
With the first ending and the USA up by one it was a matter of time for one teams to get the lucky bounce either putting the US up by two or giving the Russians their first tying the game.
Russia found themselves in penalty trouble early in the period managing to kill it off but allowing the US to take a 2-0 lead at the 4:20 mark of the second as Chmelevski tipped it in.
Despite the strong forecheck of the US, the Russians dominated the play utilizing their quick transition from zone to zone pulling within one as Denisenko at 13:36.
Pre Game 
Calling I-800 – Goal 
Jeff Ingram No Goal
The final minute of the second saw Anderson of the US was assessed a minor for Kneeing in his own zone.
Twice in the third Russia players direct shots at Primeau only to have them squeeze through his pads with him looking behind to see if the puck crossed the line.
USA Goalie, #31 Cayden Primeau kicks out the toe save.
Team USA’s Game MVP stopping 34/35 shots.
Russia forced the play in the later part of the third only to be turned aside by the stingy play of the US who are headed to the 2019 World Junior Championships
Following the game US forward Jack Hughes told the media “Playing in the World Juniors, winning a Gold medal, I mean that’s every little boy’s dream.”
Top dollar entertainment from both teams who no doubt have several of their players playing in the NHL in years to come.
Next up for the US was a waiting game to see who they would face as it would be either Finland or Switzerland in a Saturday afternoon match-up for Gold.
On a note of interest Team USA goalie, #31 Cayden Primeau kicks out the toe to stop this hot shot.
His play throughout the night led his team to the “W” and he was Team USA’s Game MVP stopping 34/35 shots.
